How to Use a Mobile Camera as a Web Cam

If you are looking to install a webcam for your computer, especially to use with your instant messaging system, you don't necessarily need to purchase an actual webcam. It is possible to use a mobile camera, be it a digital camera or cellphone camera with a computer chip inside, as your webcam. While it is possible to connect this device with the help of a video capture card, there is another option if you want the camera to keep its mobility. It requires a software program made for installing on both your computer and camera.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mobile camera
• Internet access
• USB cable (optional)
• Instant messaging application

1. Download and install on your computer a webcam setup program for both your computer and mobile camera. Mobiola Webcam is the most used mobile webcam software, as it is compatible with several types of phones and the Blackberry.

2. Locate the folder for the program after installing; it is usually found in the "Program Files" folder from your main C: drive. Find the mobile application or sis/jar file (read over the instructions/tutorial for the exact file) within the folder and transfer it to your mobile camera.

3. Open the application and go to the "connect" command in the "options" menu. In this window, select "Bluetooth" or "WiFi" and let the computer connect to your camera. Some can also allow you to connect through a USB data cable, which will lead to a faster connection time.

4. Open your instant messaging application and go to its webcam/video settings. Locate the webcam program in the list of options and select it as the webcam. The mobile camera is now working on the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Always make sure any software you download is from a reputable source. Read over all instructions/tutorials you can find on the program before running it, as the exact operating details can always vary from program to program. WWIGO is another possible application.

Resources

• Mobiola Webcam
• Download WWIGO